Composite Tooth-Colored Fillings in Las Cruces, NM

Composite fillings – also known as tooth-colored fillings – are dental restorations designed to be inconspicuous and natural in appearance. They blend well with the teeth and appear more natural than amalgam fillings, which are darker and more easily seen by other people.

Composite fillings are made of ceramic and plastic compounds that chemically bond to the teeth. They can be used to fill in decayed areas of the teeth, as well as to help repair chipped or broken teeth.

Most dentists use composite restorations to treat the teeth closest to the front of the mouth, as they are more noticeable when patients smile.

However, advancements in dental technology and the composition of composite fillings have made it possible for Auburn dentists to also use tooth-colored fillings on molars, which receive more wear than other teeth.

Did you know…
that composite fillings allow dentists to preserve more of the natural tooth structure? This is because composite materials chemically bond to the surface of the tooth like an adhesive. The process takes slightly longer to complete than traditional amalgam fillings, but patients can preserve more of the natural portion of the teeth while enjoying a restoration that is discreet and understated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I a candidate for tooth-colored fillings?

If you have a cavity, broken tooth, or a deteriorated filling, you may be a candidate for a tooth-colored filling. A filling is used to restore and protect a tooth from decay, cracks, or fractures.

Dr. Borham can examine your tooth to ensure you receive proper treatment. If you’d like to schedule a dental consultation to find out if composites are right for you, give us a call today (575) 523-5589.

What should I expect if my dentist decides a composite filling is right for me?

During your visit, your gums and teeth will be anesthetized with a local anesthetic near the site of the filling. Once the area is numb, the decayed or damaged portion of your teeth will be removed to make room for the new tooth-colored filling.

Then, resin will be placed over the area and cured with a hand-held light for less than a minute. The new filling will then be shaped and polished before the procedure is complete.

How long do composite fillings last?

Composite fillings are designed to last up to five years or more with good oral care. With a proper dental hygiene routine, your teeth will remain healthy and eliminate the risk of another decayed tooth.

When a composite filling needs to be replaced, it can be easily be done here at our Las Cruces dental office.

 What type of post-treatment care is required after getting a composite filling?

Composite fillings are preserved with light at our dental office. You should be able to return to normal activity and oral care immediately after your visit.

It’s normal for treated teeth to experience some sensitivity to hot and cold in the days following treatment, but sensitivity that persists beyond a week should be reported to your dentist.

Dentures in Las Cruces, NM

Are you suffering from the effects of missing teeth? If you’re missing one or more teeth you may have noticed a decline in your appearance and overall health. If this is the case, we can help you achieve a beautiful, full smile with dentures.

Types of Dentures We Offer

Since each patient has different dental needs, we offer multiple different types of dentures. If you’re not sure which option is best for you, we’ll work with you to create a customized treatment plan for you.

Partial Dentures

If you’re missing one or multiple teeth, Dr. Borham may suggest partial dentures. This restoration consists of one or more dental crowns that are attached to your existing natural teeth. We’ll either attach it using metal framework, or by placing crowns over existing adjacent teeth to support the partial denture.

Full Dentures

Full dentures are a great option for those who are missing a full set of teeth. This restoration is custom fit to your mouth and secured firmly to your gums. You’ll start experiencing an improvement in your appearance and oral health after receiving this restoration option.

Both partial and full dentures are an affordable way to restore your smile, and often you can even receive these options in just one visit.

Implant Retained Dentures

If you’re looking for a more secure replacement option, talk to Dr. Borham about implant retained dentures. These removable dentures are secured to your mouth using dental implants.

First, the number of implants you need will be placed in your jawbone. Next, your removable dentures will be attached to the implants. With this option, you’ll notice your dentures fit better and are less likely to loosen over time.

Are You a Candidate for Dentures?

If you’re missing teeth for whatever reason, replacing them with dentures may be a beneficial solution. Dentures will boost your self-confidence and improve or create relationships as well.

You may also be a candidate for dentures if your teeth are severely decayed or damaged. Dr. Borham will securely attach your dentures in your mouth after extracting the damaged teeth, leaving you with an attractive smile you’ll be proud to show off.

If you’ve noticed a decline in your ability to eat your favorite foods or talk to others, dentures will improve these functions and alleviate the stress they may be causing.

Maintaining and Repairing Dentures

Since dentures are a replacement for your natural teeth, we recommend taking extra care of them, only consuming food or beverages that won’t damage them.

Cleaning your dentures regularly is also essential if you want your dentures to last for many years to come and avoid oral problems. Taking out your dentures and cleaning them with a toothbrush and toothpaste is the best way to ensure they don’t become stained or worn.

We’ll also provide a cleaning solution for you to soak your dentures in. Before you go to bed, simply take out your dentures and leave them in the solution overnight. This will ensure they’re disinfected and won’t damage your gums.

If your dentures break or become ill-fitting, contact us right away. Dr. Borham will inspect them and send them to a special lab to be fixed.

Denture Replacement

Dentures will enhance your smile, but some options might not be sufficient long term solutions for some patients. While implant-retained dentures may be beneficial for many people, others may prefer a more permanent option.

Dental implants are a permanent solution to missing teeth that are inserted directly to your jawbone to stimulate bone growth. They also provide you with more freedom and eliminate restrictions on what you can eat and drink. Dr. Borham can replace one, multiple, or even a full arch of teeth with natural-looking implants.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dentures

How much is a set of dentures?

The average cost of a set of dentures ranges from $600 to $2,000. The cost is determined on a case by case basis depending on your individual needs. For a more accurate estimate, contact our Basalt office at (970) 279-5647 to schedule a consultation. 

Dr. Borham will examine your oral health, and provide you with a more precise, complete cost, based on your customized treatment plan. Insurance may cover a portion of the expense. We suggest contacting your provider prior to your consultation to get an understanding of your coverage. 

We also offer financing options so you don’t have to go another day without a complete smile.

How can dental implants improve my experience with dentures?

Dental implants provide a secure base for dentures, making them more stable while performing daily functions. You’ll be able to speak and eat without worry that they’ll slip around in your mouth. You’ll also be free of any diet restrictions, so you can fully enjoy the benefits of your new smile. Ask Dr. Borham about our implant-retained dentures for more information.

How long do you have to wait to get dentures after teeth are pulled?

If you have tooth extractions, you’ll have to wait until the gums are healed which usually takes six to eight weeks. During that time, Dr. Borham can fit you for immediate dentures so you won’t have to miss a day without your smile.

My current pair of dentures are loose or ill-fitting, what are my options?

Over time dentures will become loose due to continuous wear. If you experience discomfort with your dentures, contact Dr. Borham immediately. He’ll have you come into his office so he can re-evaluate your restoration. If you prefer a more permanent solution than dentures, implants may be right for you. They are more stable and require the same maintenance as your natural teeth. 

My dentures broke, how do I fix them?

Dentures are complex and should only be fixed by a professional. We recommend that you bring them into our office so we can send them to a special lab to repair them. Trying to fix them on your own could cause damage to your dentures, so be sure to contact our office immediately so we can help you repair your smile.

How do I clean my dentures? How do I remove staining?

To clean your dentures, you’ll remove your restorations and brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste. You’ll also soak them in a special solution overnight to get rid of any bacteria.

To remove stains, you can either purchase a denture cleaner made to remove stains or bring them into our office to have them cleaned professionally.

Receive A Complete Smile in Las Cruces, NM

Are you ready to restore your smile and improve your appearance as well as daily functions? Dentures are natural-looking restorations that will provide you with a full smile. Contact us at 575-523-5589 to get started on your journey to a new smile.

Provisional Restorations in Las Cruces, NM

Provisional restorations are often used during complex restorative dental procedures to serve as temporary prosthetic replacements while patients wait for a permanent restoration. Provisional restorations offer patients to try-out the look and feel of the final prosthetic and make any necessary changes before the final fabrication and fitting.

Unlike temporary prosthetics of the past, modern provisional restorations are highly functional and aesthetically pleasing. Today’s temporaries are composed of a quality acrylic resin that mimics the look and feel of permanent metal or ceramic restorations.

Did you know…
Provisional restorations are a primary component of smile reconstructions. In addition to serving cosmetic purposes for patients with missing or damaged teeth, dental temporaries provide the following functions:

• Reserving’ space for the permanent restoration by preventing surrounding tooth movement
• Protecting reduced natural teeth that are prepped for restorations
• Preserving the health and natural contours of the gums surrounding the restoration
• Protecting exposed dentin from bacteria and plaque
• Preventing tooth sensitivite
• Facilitating normal eating and speaking

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I need a provisional restoration during the course of my dental treatment?

You may need a provisional restoration if you are preparing to get a new crown, bridge, veneers, dental implants, or some other permanent restoration. Temporaries may be put in place to ensure you are pleased with the aesthetics and fit of your new prosthetic.

You may also be fit for a provisional restoration while you wait for a dental lab to finalize your permanent ones.

What should I expect when being fit for a dental temporary?

Temporaries are constructed in a dental laboratory using impressions and digital images of your teeth. The lab will produce a ‘wax-up’ that you will approve before the temporaries are fabricated.

Dr. Borham or Dr. Oushy will prepare your teeth for the provisional restorations and temporarily attach them to your teeth, where they will remain until you are ready for your permanent restorations.

How long do I need to wear a provisional restoration?

You may need to wear your temporaries for just a few days or for several months depending on the type of dental reconstruction you are undergoing.

Temporaries formed in place of crowns or veneers may only need to be worn for a few days to a few weeks. Dental implant and full-mouth reconstruction patients will need to wear provisional restorations for several months while the gums heal and the implants fuse with the surrounding bone.

Will I need to follow any special guidelines after receiving my temporary restoration?

It’s important to keep in mind that provisional restorations are less durable than permanent ones and are placed using provisional cement. It is possible for them to shift or become damaged, so you should be careful and follow our guidelines for caring for your temporaries.

This includes following a good oral hygiene routine, abiding by dietary restrictions, and using protective mouth gear during sports or high impact activity.

TMJ Treatment in Las Cruces, NM

TMJ refers to the temporomandibular joint, which is the bone structure, muscles and connective tissues that surround the jaw and control chewing. When patients experience disorders of this joint, they are said to have a temporomandibular joint disorder or TMD. Symptoms of TMD include pain and tenderness near the jaw, as well as popping or clicking in the joint when speaking or chewing.

There are many ways of treating TMJ disorders, ranging from non-invasive therapy and bite splints to injections or surgery. Left untreated, however, TMJ disorders can lead to headaches, muscle pain, malocclusion and tooth damage from grinding or clenching.

Did you know…
that TMD alone is not a disorder, but instead a collection of disorders that affect the temporomandibular joint? It is the second most common pain-causing musculoskeletal condition in the U.S. according to the U.S. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, as many as 12 percent of Americans may suffer from some type of TMD, with women twice as likely to be affected than men. But despite the prevalence and wide availability of treatment, only one out every three people with TMD fails to seek treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I expect if I undergo treatment for TMJ disorder?

TMJ disorder treatment varies from patient to patient, so it’s likely your experience may be different when compared to someone else’s. Dr. Borham may require you to adopt certain lifestyle changes to help facilitate rehabilitation in your jaw. 

In some cases, you may be asked to avoid sudden jaw movements, such as yelling or yawning. Positional therapy, or sleeping on your back, can also be a preventive step to help reduce stress levels. If you’re experiencing symptoms related to TMJ disorder, schedule a consultation with Dr. Borham by calling (575) 523-5589.  During the consultation, he’ll evaluate your symptoms and provide you with a customized treatment plan. 

How do I know if TMD treatment is right for me?

If you’re experiencing pain associated with TMJ disorder, Dr. Borham will evaluate the extent of the condition and determine what course of treatment is best for you. Typically, the initial treatment for TMD involves conservative treatments, or a non-surgical procedure, and bite guards. 

Medications may also be used to relax the jaw or relieve pain. Patients who do not respond to conservative treatments may be considered for surgery or joint injections.

Can TMJ disorder go away on its own?

Certain lifestyle changes may decrease the effects of TMJ, however, for long-lasting results, it’s best coupled with other interventions such as a bite guard or physical therapy. During your initial consultation, Dr. Borham will examine your oral health and determine the best course of action based on your needs. 

What causes TMJ disorder?

There are many known causes of TMJ disorder, also referred to as TMD. Some of the possible causes include physical injury, misalignment of the teeth or jaw, stress, arthritis, clenching or grinding of the teeth during sleep, dental surgeries, poor posture, and infections. 

What if I don’t seek treatment for TMD?

If left untreated, TMJ can have serious consequences that may have otherwise been avoided. You may experience joint damage and inflammation, wearing down your teeth, ear ringing, and hearing damage or loss. If you’re experiencing TMJ disorder, it’s best to put the painful symptoms to rest before they have lasting effects. 

Contact our Las Cruces location by calling (575) 523-5589. One of our knowledgeable team members will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Dental Restorations: Inlays & Onlays in Las Cruces, NM

Inlays and onlays are dental restorations that are more extensive than dental fillings but less so than caps and crowns. They are typically formed in a dental lab and are made of gold, porcelain or resin depending on the patient’s needs and aesthetic goals. An inlay refers to a restoration that is formed to fit the center of a tooth, whereas an onlay refers to a restoration that encompasses at least, one cusp of the tooth. Both inlays and onlays are bonded to the surface of damaged teeth and matched to the color of the surrounding teeth.

Did you know…
that inlays and onlays can serve as alternative treatments to dental crowns when you have a broken or damaged tooth? When fillings are not enough to adequately repair a tooth, an inlay or onlay can be custom-created to fit securely onto the tooth’s surface. Depending on the materials used, the restoration can be created to appear natural and will have the same function of an organic tooth. Inlays and onlays have extremely high success rates and because they are custom made for each patient, most last longer than traditional fillings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I a candidate for an inlay or onlay?

You could be a candidate for an inlay or onlay in if you have moderate tooth damage or decay and are in search of an alternative restoration option to a crown or cap. Inlays and onlays are meant to look like part of your natural tooth, so they’re less noticeable than amalgam fillings.

If you’re a candidate for a dental filling, you’re likely also a candidate for an inlay or onlay. They’re not suitable for every type of tooth damage, such as cases where most of your natural tooth is missing, so your dentist will perform an examination to determine if an inlay or onlay is the best solution for you.

What should I expect when I get my inlay or onlay restoration?

Your inlay or onlay restoration will be completed over two dental appointments. First, your tooth will be prepared for treatment, and an impression will be taken to serve as a mold for your new restoration. 

You may receive a temporary restoration to keep your tooth safe while your permanent restoration is created.

Once completed, you’ll return to have the temporary restoration removed and the permanent one bonded to the surface of the teeth. This doesn’t take long and you’ll soon be able to smile knowing your restoration looks completely natural.

Do I need to follow any post-treatment care guidelines?

Special care needs to be given to your teeth while temporary restorations are in place. It’s important to avoid sticky or hard foods that could cause significant damage to temporaries. Your dentist will give you detailed care instructions to follow.

Once you receive your permanent inlay or onlay, you can resume normal eating, brushing and flossing habits. It’s important to keep up with regular oral hygiene practices to keep your teeth safe and help your restoration to last as long as possible. Regular dental visits also ensure your restoration remains clean and healthy along with the rest of your smile.

If you are undergoing a dental procedure or operation, you will be given a set of post-operative instructions to abide by in the hours, days, and weeks after your treatment. Following these instructions is essential to preventing infections in surgical sites, protecting restorations, and minimizing the possibility of experiencing complications. Post-operative instructions vary from procedure to procedure, but you are still sure to have some questions regarding care. Your [city] dentist will be available to answer those questions and respond to any concerns you may have.

Try to anticipate some of the questions you may have about your post-operative care and ask them prior to your treatment.

Some of the most common post-op questions include:

• How should I manage pain following my procedure?

• How long should I experience discomfort?

• Do I need to follow any special dietary guidelines?

• Is it safe for me to drink through a straw?

• Will I be able to drive myself home after my procedure?

• Will I need to take an antibiotic?

• Will I need to return to your office for a follow-up appointment?

• When will my permanent restorations be ready?

• How do I care for my removable prosthesis?

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I talk with my dentist about the questions I have regarding my post-operative care?

Yes. Your post-operative care is contingent on you understanding everything about the recovery process and your responsibilities in caring for your surgical site.

What should I expect when I speak with my dentist?

Your dentist should allocate enough time in your consultation and pre-operative exam to listen to your concerns and answer any questions you may have. You should also be provided a phone number that you can call following your procedure to discuss any questions that may come up at that time.

Is there anything I can do to make the process easier?

Yes. Begin thinking of any questions you may have about your post-operative care, and begin writing them down. You’ll be ready to ask all of your questions when the opportunity arises without missing any important details.